Thinking about relocating to France or Germany? This comprehensive France vs Germany comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
-17.7%
Germany pays more
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
France vs Germany Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
42 800 €52.000 €Median Salary
36 000 €44.000 €Minimum Wage
21 876 €24.960 €Top 10%
70 000 €80.000 €Work-Life Balance: France vs Germany
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35 hours (legal limit)
35-40 hours
Annual Leave
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
Public Holidays
11 days
9 days
Sick Leave
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
14 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
28 days at 100% salary
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
France vs Germany for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
France
Why Work in France
35-Hour Work Week
France has one of the shortest legal work weeks in Europe, promoting excellent work-life balance.
Strong Labor Protections
Extensive worker rights, including protection against unfair dismissal and strong union representation.
Excellent Healthcare
One of the world's best healthcare systems, with most costs covered by social security.
Generous Parental Leave
Comprehensive maternity, paternity, and parental leave policies supporting families.
Quality of Life
Rich culture, excellent food, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and personal time.
Challenges of Living in France
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social contributions can reach 45% or more of gross salary.
Language Requirement
French is essential for most workplaces; English-only positions are limited mainly to Paris.
Complex Bureaucracy
French administration is notoriously complex and often requires patience and paperwork.
Lower Salaries Than Neighbors
Compared to Germany or Netherlands, French salaries can be lower in similar roles.
Rigid Labor Market
Strong protections can make it harder to find positions as employers are cautious about hiring.
Germany
Why Work in Germany
Strong Job Security
German labor laws provide excellent protection against unfair dismissal and strong worker rights.
Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector
World-renowned industries offering cutting-edge work in automotive, manufacturing, and technology.
Quality Healthcare
Universal healthcare system with high-quality medical care and reasonable costs.
Central European Hub
Excellent transportation networks and central location for European travel and business.
Strong Economy
Stable economy with low unemployment and consistent growth opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Germany
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social security contributions can reach 42-45% of gross salary.
Language Barrier
Unlike the Netherlands, German is often required in the workplace, especially outside major cities.
Bureaucracy
German bureaucracy can be challenging, with many processes requiring in-person visits and German documents.
Church Tax
Members of certain religions pay an additional 8-9% church tax on income tax.
Complex Tax System
Six tax classes and numerous deductions make understanding your net salary complicated.
Tax Rates France vs Germany
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
France
- Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%
- Family quotient system reduces tax for families
- CSG (9.2%) and CRDS (0.5%) on 98.25% of salary
- PASS (Social Security ceiling) €48,060/year in 2026
- Wealth tax on real estate over €1.3 million (IFI)
Germany
- Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%
- Six tax classes based on marital status
- Optional church tax (8-9% of income tax)
- Solidarity surcharge for high earners
- Social security split between employer and employee
Best Cities to Work in France and Germany
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
France
Germany
How to Find Jobs in France vs Germany
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
France
Primary platforms for professional roles. Indeed France has extensive French and international listings.
Popular French platform focused on startups and tech companies with company culture insights.
French Tech Visa Companies
Startups with French Tech Visa label can fast-track hiring of international talent.
Germany
LinkedIn for international roles, Xing is Germany's local professional network essential for German-speaking positions.
Major German job portals with extensive listings across all industries and experience levels.
Official government portal with job listings and comprehensive immigration information.
Official job portal with verified positions and support services for job seekers.
German Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Robert Half, Hays Germany, and Kienbaum help place international professionals.
Work Visa Options: France vs Germany
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
France Work Visas
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
Multi-year visa for highly skilled workers, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
French Tech Visa
Fast-track visa for employees of French Tech-labeled startups.
EU Blue Card France
For highly qualified workers meeting EU-wide standards.
Temporary Worker Visa (Salarié)
For workers with job offers not meeting Talent Passport requirements.
Germany Work Visas
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers. Germany issues most EU Blue Cards in Europe.
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräftevisum)
For qualified professionals with vocational training or university degree.
Job Seeker Visa
Allows qualified professionals to enter Germany and search for work.
IT Specialist Visa
Special visa for IT professionals without formal degrees but with practical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions: France vs Germany
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in France vs Germany?
The average salary in France is 42 800 € per year, while in Germany it is 52.000 € per year. This represents a 17.7% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: France or Germany?
France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) work week. Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between France and Germany?
In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% salary. In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared).
Is it better to work in France or Germany as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between France and Germany?
France: Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%. Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in France or Germany
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
